March 29, 2015
Hi everyone, happy new year! It has been a long time. After enough people bugging me about it
Suzy and I are back in the US. It was a great almost two years in the Philippines. I will use this blog to recap the last couple months and talk about one of my most favorite memories, the guards. Lets start with the guards.
In Eastwood City, Security is a constant presence. They are everywhere. Armed security checkpoints, roving patrols with automatic weapons, metal detectors to get into the mall and most restaurants and stores have a guard present at the front door. Banks always seem to have at least 2 armed guards and they lock the door before and after each person arrives/leaves.
The condo we were in, Eastwood Park Residences, had at least a couple guards at all times. They took great care of us always, and I am proud to call them my friends. Each and everyone took a personal interest in Suzy and I and we appreciated that. They are great. I was proud that they invited me to their staff Christmas Party.
Outside Eastwood, my first guard experience was with the security at the Wells Fargo office in McKinley Hill. To enter, it was like going to a sporting event, with metal detectors. One guard took time to chat with me, his name is Avellino. I do not know if he is still there, but I hope so. He was great. I went to that building a few times, trying to get cleared to work there. He was always there and talked to me. I appreciated that, especially since I was knew to the country. His name was easy to remember, it reminded me of former Bears QB Bob Avellini.
I had plenty of time at Eastwood, so I got to make friends with the different guards...
At the taxi stand, sir Mark. He was great. I appreciated how he always greeted me as I waited for taxis. I was in line nightly for Suzy and Melissa and sir mark made that time much more enjoyable.
I didn't go to a popular bar, The Distillery, a lot... but when I did I always made time for a guard I called Tiger. I never knew his name. He was a big, muscular fella that was bald. I knew it was smart to be on his good side. Occasionally, Id slip him 100 pesos... He always took care of me. Even if I was just walking by... He would always wave or salute.
Spirit Fingers. My favorite guard at the mall was a fella who would greet me with a huge smile and then give "spirit fingers"... I did not know his name either... But Spirit fingers fits, and those who have been to the mall and run into him, know exactly who I am talking about.
I plan to return to the Philippines as a visitor in 2016. I sure hope my favorite guards are still there.
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Recap time!
Manny Pacquiao fights Floyd May 2. I sure wish I was going to be in the PH for that, but I will go to a friends who has the fight. I have a flag of the Philippines ready as I will cheer on Manny. I have always been a Pac Man fan, and it was a dream come true that I got to meet manny at TGI Fridays. My man, Zeke, called me one Sunday morning and said, "MANNY PACQUIAO IS AT FRIDAYS, GET DOWN HERE."
So I did. Manny had a quiet dinner with his family and entourage and then the crowds started showing up. He is the People's champ. I was honored that he took a moment to have a selfie with me.
Flying home from the Philippines... I got so sick. and I mean SO sick... First flight is 4 hours from Manila to Tokyo. Then 12 hours or so from Tokyo to Minneapolis. Final flight is 1 hour from MSP to Des Moines. We checked in like 6 bags--- carry on 4. Vinny was a carry on and that was Suzy's responsibility. Mine was her HEAVY carryon. My Heavy Carryon. and my backpack with our laptops. The aisles in the planes are tighter than scrooge. Its not like I am tiny-- and I have 3 bags-- I am sorry to all the people I bumped-- sounded like Bugs bunny every time, "excuse me, pardon me, sorry, excuse me..." Well all those heavy bags and up down tweaked my back. I had bad back spasms on the long flight. Couple that with a terrible stomach ache... oh and the worst turbulence from Tokyo to Minnesota.
One saving grace-- The guy I sat next to, a guy from Kansas City named Jason Flowers, was a drinker. He kept me laughing. He had at least 15 bottles of Rum. They cut him off after 4 or 5, but a couple hours later decided to turn him lose. He was fine, until the plane landed-- then it hit him... But it was a joy and he did put up with me getting up every hour.
The staff was great on the flight-- they made me a hot water bottle for my back. they also gave me some pain reliever. About halfway through though-- I started getting sick... That did not stop until a day later in Iowa. The last time I was that vomitous, was in 1992 after the Dairy Queen Hot dog incident. SIDE BAR-- So in 1992 I was real hungry and Dairy Queen had a $1 hot dog special. I got 3 hot dogs (the lady working happened to be a classmate of mine from High school). whatever happened, I got so sick. I went to work the next day at the Newton Daily News and we had our standard breakfast at midtown Cafe. While leaving, I vomited all over the floor there. The owner came over to me with a mop, and said something to the effect of, "clean it up." so I did. That was the last time I was that ill.
Back to the story at hand... I do not recommend vomiting in an airplane bathroom. That was the worst. When we got to our hotel in Ankeny, I christened the parking lot. Yuck. 48 hours later I was fine. Jet Lagged (takes about 2 weeks for me to get over that), but at least I wasnt sick.
The thing I miss most about the Philippines? My friends, of course and the staff of TGI Fridays. Being 13 hours behind, I have a tough window. a couple hours in the morning and evening is about it to chat with them. Fridays staff is changing, which makes me sad. One good friend has moved on and I suspect others will too. It will make my visit next year challenging to see everyone if they are all scattered.
Second thing I miss about the Philippines? Project Pie and their staff. Granted, one of my favorite managers just got transferred to a different location, but that happens. I miss their pizza. I miss the crew. The corporate office tweeted me some pictures of their pizza. Thanks... I can't wait to visit the Project Pies in Denver. at least I can enjoy the great pizza there.
I also miss the Philippines weather. I land here and things I had forgotten about came back. Chapped lips. Yuck. Dry skin? yuck. Never had to worry about that. I also miss cheap movies, living above a mall and bars that are open all night. Restaurants like Fridays and Agave across the street was nice, too. I miss bowling. I got bowl a couple times with PBA player Kelly Williams. He was great. Much better bowler than I.
One thing that never got blogged about, but was mentioned at length by me on twitter, facebook and instagram... walking stairs. I walked on average 60-100 flights of stairs 6 days a week. Helped me drop about 50 pounds. Nice to come home to clothes I had not worn in years.
Best wishes to my man Al Thornton, a former NBA player who was down in the PBA. His team lost last night to Meralco in the Play-offs. I met him at Fridays and saw him many times around Eastwood. He always had time for me. I hope his future plans go well and wish him the best.
My team, Purefoods, is still in the play-offs. I am happy for that. If anyone hasn't seen it, I recommend googling the blindfolded dunk attempt from my friend Justin Melton in the dunk contest this year. He shared victory last year. This year not as fortunate, but tried a blindfold dunk. It's worth seeing. I also know that he handled that experience with dignity and class, which he has plenty of both to spare.
I am sure there is more to talk about-- but for now I will go. I have two good stories from this week I will blog about later on next week.
I join the workforce again tomorrow... nice to be back.
Take care of yourselves everyone,
Chuck
Monday, March 30, 2015
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Chilling in the Philippines-- A day like no other
October 01, 2014
Some days are different than any other.
It began like most. Breakfast with Suzy and Melissa. A walk of Vinny... but thats where similarities end.
We get mail every couple months from home-- just our stuff forwarded to us. Its nice to get albeit we feel bad as a manila envelope is about $40. Yikes. There is also a charge to get it and the post office is a 2 hour round trip.
I took a taxi to the Quezon City post office. Traffic was horrendous, even at 9 am. Finally we got there. On my way out of the cab, I hit my head pretty hard on the edge of the door. It has left a know on my head and quite an ache. Inside the post office-- I waited in line and was shuffled about from window to window-- one is to show my pickup card, one to pay and one to pick up the envelope.
All the while Christmas music was blaring. They already have their lights up, so at least everyone is in the spirit. I get the package and head to the cab. As I am heading in... I put my fingers on the door as the cabbie hits the windows up button. Great... all my fingers are being rolled up on... I yell, " OUCH! OUCH! WINDOWS WINDOWS! ROLL DOWN THE $$#@&ing WINDOW! F$&* OUCH !!! My finger tips on my right hand are still throbbing. He finally complied and we headed out,
The Barangay Emergengy Response Team (BERT) was deployed by the Post Office just after we left. I imagine they were called after reports of an obese white guy yelling at the top of his lungs.
After I got home the day was fairly normal. Watched KC advance in the MLB play-offs. I then got ready to meet my buddy Ash as we were heading to Smart Araneta Coliseum to watch our favorite College team here, FEU, play in a do or die game against 5 time defending champion. Here is a review of our previous trip there-- http://www.stadiumjourney.com/stadiums/smart-araneta-coliseum-s2128 ....
Just as we are planning to meet, the skies opened and an intense downpour of rain ensued. We decided it was in our best interest to not try to go, but to watch the game at TGI Fridays. traffic and rain and a long taxi line is a bad combo.
We watch the game, and of course it was epic. We missed FEU winning 67-64 on a 3 pointer by Mac Belo as time expired. Here is what we missed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_X5efii2HaY
We did get to watch at TGI Fridays and the store let out a huge cheer. The downside to this... it was occurring during when I normally procure a taxi for Suzy and Melissa to take to work. They were in line instead and not having any luck. So after the game-- I saw them and told them I would be back with a cab. ten minutes later-- I got a taxi and negotiated with him. He then said thank you as he had a family of sick children. In his next breath he laughed and said, "You are fat." Really dude... after just agreeing to pay you above scale for a taxi? Oh well.
We get Suzy and Melissa and they replace me. 20 minutes later, I get a text from Suzy saying that the driver talked to them for ten minutes about my fatness. Thanks, buddy.
I decide to then head back to Fridays for one last beer to celebrate FEU and their win.
While at Fridays, my friends there on staff asked if I wanted to help them out. They were making a new video for upper management showing a new birthday song they had practiced. And in the video, they needed a person to portray one having a birthday... UM, YES PLEASE!
So, I got to play myself and have happy birthday sung to me. Fun times.... Video of that will be forthcoming I am sure.
Today has been fun... My fingers were caught in a door window, I saw a tremendous ending to a game, I secured Suzy a cab and was insulted, and ended it with having Happy Birthday sung to me... GREAT TIMES.
Take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Some days are different than any other.
It began like most. Breakfast with Suzy and Melissa. A walk of Vinny... but thats where similarities end.
We get mail every couple months from home-- just our stuff forwarded to us. Its nice to get albeit we feel bad as a manila envelope is about $40. Yikes. There is also a charge to get it and the post office is a 2 hour round trip.
I took a taxi to the Quezon City post office. Traffic was horrendous, even at 9 am. Finally we got there. On my way out of the cab, I hit my head pretty hard on the edge of the door. It has left a know on my head and quite an ache. Inside the post office-- I waited in line and was shuffled about from window to window-- one is to show my pickup card, one to pay and one to pick up the envelope.
All the while Christmas music was blaring. They already have their lights up, so at least everyone is in the spirit. I get the package and head to the cab. As I am heading in... I put my fingers on the door as the cabbie hits the windows up button. Great... all my fingers are being rolled up on... I yell, " OUCH! OUCH! WINDOWS WINDOWS! ROLL DOWN THE $$#@&ing WINDOW! F$&* OUCH !!! My finger tips on my right hand are still throbbing. He finally complied and we headed out,
The Barangay Emergengy Response Team (BERT) was deployed by the Post Office just after we left. I imagine they were called after reports of an obese white guy yelling at the top of his lungs.
After I got home the day was fairly normal. Watched KC advance in the MLB play-offs. I then got ready to meet my buddy Ash as we were heading to Smart Araneta Coliseum to watch our favorite College team here, FEU, play in a do or die game against 5 time defending champion. Here is a review of our previous trip there-- http://www.stadiumjourney.com/stadiums/smart-araneta-coliseum-s2128 ....
Just as we are planning to meet, the skies opened and an intense downpour of rain ensued. We decided it was in our best interest to not try to go, but to watch the game at TGI Fridays. traffic and rain and a long taxi line is a bad combo.
We watch the game, and of course it was epic. We missed FEU winning 67-64 on a 3 pointer by Mac Belo as time expired. Here is what we missed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_X5efii2HaY
We did get to watch at TGI Fridays and the store let out a huge cheer. The downside to this... it was occurring during when I normally procure a taxi for Suzy and Melissa to take to work. They were in line instead and not having any luck. So after the game-- I saw them and told them I would be back with a cab. ten minutes later-- I got a taxi and negotiated with him. He then said thank you as he had a family of sick children. In his next breath he laughed and said, "You are fat." Really dude... after just agreeing to pay you above scale for a taxi? Oh well.
We get Suzy and Melissa and they replace me. 20 minutes later, I get a text from Suzy saying that the driver talked to them for ten minutes about my fatness. Thanks, buddy.
I decide to then head back to Fridays for one last beer to celebrate FEU and their win.
While at Fridays, my friends there on staff asked if I wanted to help them out. They were making a new video for upper management showing a new birthday song they had practiced. And in the video, they needed a person to portray one having a birthday... UM, YES PLEASE!
So, I got to play myself and have happy birthday sung to me. Fun times.... Video of that will be forthcoming I am sure.
Today has been fun... My fingers were caught in a door window, I saw a tremendous ending to a game, I secured Suzy a cab and was insulted, and ended it with having Happy Birthday sung to me... GREAT TIMES.
Take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Monday, September 29, 2014
Chilling in the Philippines-- "Bonsai!!!!!!!"
September 29, 2014
I am sitting here waiting for the season premiere of Resurrection. On the Fox Family Movie channel is "The Karate Kid" and I figure-- why not watch it for the 200th time.
While Daniel was yelling "Bonzai!" It reminded me of a favorite experience back in Iowa. I had to check my blog archive-- I don't think I have mentioned this one, although a few of you were there years ago and know the story.
So back around 2002 or 2003 I was on lunch break... I worked 10-7 so it was 2 in the afternoon. I had been told there was a dude of oriental descent in a dirty white shell of a van selling bonsai trees at the Domino's Pizza Parking lot back in Newton and if he was still there I was given money to pick a couple up.
So, I go searching down 1st Ave looking for the van... and lo and behold, just like they said, there he was. A beat up, crusty white shell of a van that was only missing FREE CANDY on the side. As I approached, I saw He had all sorts of Bonsai trees-- big, small and in between. I found a couple ones for $20 each that fit the requirements I was tasked with and then found one for me. I gave him money and then he motioned for me to hang on a minute.
It was at that time, he brought out a grimy gallon jung of what I guess was water. the container caked with dirt. He then took a huge swig of the liquid in the container and promptly spit it out on the first tree I had just purchased. I took a couple steps back. Was this a tradition? Was he blessing it? Was that even water? Was this sanitary?
He proceeded to douse the other trees the same way. I then took my spit soaked plantings and put them in my car. He then ended our transaction with sage-like advice, "Remembah, It Dry... It DIE!"
That was good advice I carry with me always
Take care of yourselves,
Chuck
I am sitting here waiting for the season premiere of Resurrection. On the Fox Family Movie channel is "The Karate Kid" and I figure-- why not watch it for the 200th time.
While Daniel was yelling "Bonzai!" It reminded me of a favorite experience back in Iowa. I had to check my blog archive-- I don't think I have mentioned this one, although a few of you were there years ago and know the story.
So back around 2002 or 2003 I was on lunch break... I worked 10-7 so it was 2 in the afternoon. I had been told there was a dude of oriental descent in a dirty white shell of a van selling bonsai trees at the Domino's Pizza Parking lot back in Newton and if he was still there I was given money to pick a couple up.
So, I go searching down 1st Ave looking for the van... and lo and behold, just like they said, there he was. A beat up, crusty white shell of a van that was only missing FREE CANDY on the side. As I approached, I saw He had all sorts of Bonsai trees-- big, small and in between. I found a couple ones for $20 each that fit the requirements I was tasked with and then found one for me. I gave him money and then he motioned for me to hang on a minute.
It was at that time, he brought out a grimy gallon jung of what I guess was water. the container caked with dirt. He then took a huge swig of the liquid in the container and promptly spit it out on the first tree I had just purchased. I took a couple steps back. Was this a tradition? Was he blessing it? Was that even water? Was this sanitary?
He proceeded to douse the other trees the same way. I then took my spit soaked plantings and put them in my car. He then ended our transaction with sage-like advice, "Remembah, It Dry... It DIE!"
That was good advice I carry with me always
Take care of yourselves,
Chuck
Chilling in the Philippines-- Tomorrow will be an exciting day for Vinny... And he has no idea.
September 29, 2014
About every two months is haircut day for Vinny.
He will get a cut, style, bath, 10 minute massage, ears cleaned, butt drained, teeth brushed, and nails clipped. . . for about $20 American... They do Coloring too-- like if we wanted him to have a green tail or rainbow colored paws but so far we have declined those offers.
The exciting part stems from the fact that Eastwood City is changing their pet policy. Currently, every 3 months I have to go to the mall concierge with his updated shots chart (literally it looks like an elementary school report card with stickers) and I then receive essentially a little "pass" that allows him to travel throughout Eastwood City and lets everyone know he has been vaccinated. Eastwood City is great with pets; with his pass he can go into most stores and even a few restaurants. He sat on a booth with us last week at Johnny Rockets, the best service for him was at California Pizza Kitchen. They gave Vinny a bowl of water and treated him like a king.
Pet passes are free, just need to be updated every 90 days. This new pet pass is more like a Doggie Driver's License. Tomorrow, after his cut, we will go to the Kodak store for a doggie photo shoot. He needs to have a pair of 1 x 1 photos for his new ID. This one is good until the expiration of his rabies shot-- which is June 2015. I hope he is manageable for that. I also hope they do not have the same rules like the DMV (no smiling).
So, big day for Vinny. Should be interesting.
Take care of yourselves...
Chuck
About every two months is haircut day for Vinny.
He will get a cut, style, bath, 10 minute massage, ears cleaned, butt drained, teeth brushed, and nails clipped. . . for about $20 American... They do Coloring too-- like if we wanted him to have a green tail or rainbow colored paws but so far we have declined those offers.
The exciting part stems from the fact that Eastwood City is changing their pet policy. Currently, every 3 months I have to go to the mall concierge with his updated shots chart (literally it looks like an elementary school report card with stickers) and I then receive essentially a little "pass" that allows him to travel throughout Eastwood City and lets everyone know he has been vaccinated. Eastwood City is great with pets; with his pass he can go into most stores and even a few restaurants. He sat on a booth with us last week at Johnny Rockets, the best service for him was at California Pizza Kitchen. They gave Vinny a bowl of water and treated him like a king.
Pet passes are free, just need to be updated every 90 days. This new pet pass is more like a Doggie Driver's License. Tomorrow, after his cut, we will go to the Kodak store for a doggie photo shoot. He needs to have a pair of 1 x 1 photos for his new ID. This one is good until the expiration of his rabies shot-- which is June 2015. I hope he is manageable for that. I also hope they do not have the same rules like the DMV (no smiling).
So, big day for Vinny. Should be interesting.
Take care of yourselves...
Chuck
Friday, September 5, 2014
Chilling in the Philippines -- One year here-- 10 Things I enjoy about the Philippines
September 05, 2014
10. San Mig Super Coffee Mixers. Sure is nice to support a local sports team that has won 4 titles while we have been here.
9. Culture. Life is different here... Its not perfect, but it is what makes life fun. Different experiences and things we cannot replicate in America.
8. Events at Eastwood. This week has been Chocolate festival. I sure love Chocolate. I appreciate too, that our favorite vendor from the previous year was here again and she remembered us. Not sure if we will still be here next year when this happens, but I hope so. We have gotten to hear great music, see fireworks from across the roof, and see the ball drop to ring in the new year. Holidays are great here. Eastwood city and Megaworld corp does a super job with entertainment.
7. New adventures. For Thanksgiving we hope to go to a private beachhouse in Puerto Glaera with friends. It has a great view, a grill and a beach. We also need to still visit tagaytay, Baguio, Palawan and a few other places. The clock is ticking, but we will get it done.
6. Project Pie. They need one of these in Des Moines. We love Project Pie. For about $6 US... one gets a pizza with whatever toppings they want. It is about the size of a normal frozen pizza, so it is not huge, but it is personalized. The staff is great. There is one in Boulder, Co and in Vegas. I hope to try those soon once we are back. Its kind of like a Subway sandwich shop for pizza, but no Jared. one just stands behind the glass and adds whatever toppings they want. Its beautiful.
5. Guards. This will be a topic soon here for the blog... But lets just say whether it is Mark the Taxi Guard, Ronald the Guard at Project Pie, The guards at TGI Fridays, our Concierge desk staff like Ederick and Ferdie (and the whole crew), the guards at the mall-- they are all great. Perfect, not always. But they are all quite personable and make life fun here.
4. Trying new food. I've been fairly adventurous. Balut-- twice done. no more-- chicken feet, good, various fruits and vegetables-- done... So much more to experience.
3. New friends. I have definitely made some forever friends. That is great. I knew I would have buddies, that is what I do... but there are some truly great people here I can call my friends. It is fabulous to have US friends that are also Ex-Pats... Easy to relate with and get the low down on things here. I have also met super cool dudes from the UK. I really look forward to going to England now someday to see their homeland. The Filipinos alsop have been quite welcoming. My local friends that are native have been quite accommodating. I hope they get to experience the USA someday and I hope I am there to show them Iowa.
2. Fridays. They are my cheers. Everyone knows my name. And I know everyone there. One of my favorite movies is Groundhog Day. There is a part when Bill Murray is trying to explain how he is like a God and he knows about everyone. It took me a year, but I could do the same thing at Friday's. It is downright scary. I am glad to have a hangout and have met some wonderful, truly superb people there.
1. Experiencing this all with Suzy. Priceless. Making forever memories, one day at a time.
Thank you all, take care of yourselves
10. San Mig Super Coffee Mixers. Sure is nice to support a local sports team that has won 4 titles while we have been here.
9. Culture. Life is different here... Its not perfect, but it is what makes life fun. Different experiences and things we cannot replicate in America.
8. Events at Eastwood. This week has been Chocolate festival. I sure love Chocolate. I appreciate too, that our favorite vendor from the previous year was here again and she remembered us. Not sure if we will still be here next year when this happens, but I hope so. We have gotten to hear great music, see fireworks from across the roof, and see the ball drop to ring in the new year. Holidays are great here. Eastwood city and Megaworld corp does a super job with entertainment.
7. New adventures. For Thanksgiving we hope to go to a private beachhouse in Puerto Glaera with friends. It has a great view, a grill and a beach. We also need to still visit tagaytay, Baguio, Palawan and a few other places. The clock is ticking, but we will get it done.
6. Project Pie. They need one of these in Des Moines. We love Project Pie. For about $6 US... one gets a pizza with whatever toppings they want. It is about the size of a normal frozen pizza, so it is not huge, but it is personalized. The staff is great. There is one in Boulder, Co and in Vegas. I hope to try those soon once we are back. Its kind of like a Subway sandwich shop for pizza, but no Jared. one just stands behind the glass and adds whatever toppings they want. Its beautiful.
5. Guards. This will be a topic soon here for the blog... But lets just say whether it is Mark the Taxi Guard, Ronald the Guard at Project Pie, The guards at TGI Fridays, our Concierge desk staff like Ederick and Ferdie (and the whole crew), the guards at the mall-- they are all great. Perfect, not always. But they are all quite personable and make life fun here.
4. Trying new food. I've been fairly adventurous. Balut-- twice done. no more-- chicken feet, good, various fruits and vegetables-- done... So much more to experience.
3. New friends. I have definitely made some forever friends. That is great. I knew I would have buddies, that is what I do... but there are some truly great people here I can call my friends. It is fabulous to have US friends that are also Ex-Pats... Easy to relate with and get the low down on things here. I have also met super cool dudes from the UK. I really look forward to going to England now someday to see their homeland. The Filipinos alsop have been quite welcoming. My local friends that are native have been quite accommodating. I hope they get to experience the USA someday and I hope I am there to show them Iowa.
2. Fridays. They are my cheers. Everyone knows my name. And I know everyone there. One of my favorite movies is Groundhog Day. There is a part when Bill Murray is trying to explain how he is like a God and he knows about everyone. It took me a year, but I could do the same thing at Friday's. It is downright scary. I am glad to have a hangout and have met some wonderful, truly superb people there.
1. Experiencing this all with Suzy. Priceless. Making forever memories, one day at a time.
Thank you all, take care of yourselves
Chilling in the Philippines -- One year here-- 10 Things I miss about the USA
September 05, 2014
Well one year here in the Philippines has come and gone. Here are ten things I miss about the USA.
10. Trivia night at Wellman's ... Team DBT! I do get to watch last year's Jeopardy episodes on the local version of the Game show channel, but it is not the the same. Trivia night... making fun of the other teams using their smart phones to get answers... good times. and that leads to another fun weeknight tradition...
9. Bingo night at Champps. I think it has a new name-- 86'd or something like that... But good old bingo night, and winning Fist pumping dance offs-- is something I definitely miss. There is no fist pumping competitions here,
8. Local Sports teams. I know Suzy misses the Iowa Energy games also even if Paul Harris is not there anymore. I do miss the relationships we made as season ticket holders at those games with the staff and our new friends. Of course, I picked the wrong year to move away from the Iowa Cubs standpoint as well. The best collection of talent in 30 years is there and I miss it. I miss the tailgating for Iowa games and the sounds of the crowd. Oh well. I got bum rushed by a big Palmetto bug/roach in the hallway yesterday... So, there is that.
7. Working. Yeah, that probably sounds weird. But it would be nice to have a real job. I enjoy helping out around here and being a personal Assistant to Melissa... but yikes-- I do miss helping others. At Wells Fargo, I miss those relationships with my co-workers-- the little things like getting to know them and their families. I miss being able to help others and make a difference. Granted, I could probably work illegally over here starting tomorrow, but we just want to do it right. Too bad working legally would cost me around 70,000 PHP allegedly. and that would take a long time to recoup. Doing the blog for Stadium Journey has been great, hopefully wet season will be over soon so more venues will have sports events. This also includes Volunteer work. There are probably opportunities here-- abundant opportunities I bet, but I miss being able to support the United Way like we did in the US. In 2013, we had a great time helping VITA in Des Moines, assisting low income persons and families with their taxes. I sure hope we can go back to that.
6. Roller Derby and Stand-up Comedy. Yeah, I miss being in front of a crowd asking for a Chuck U. I also miss standing up on stage and telling jokes. I am not sure what part in my life those will play when I return to the USA, but I know I miss those and all of my friends from that a lot here.
5. Grilling. I am not a masterchef, but I do enjoy working with food on the grill. Plus, I am pretty good. I have a couple good recipes for hot dogs and sausages and do well with steak, chops, and chicken. Ahhh to be on the deck in the fall, with the crisp air, a cold micro beer in one hand, a spatula in the other and food on the grill... I would sure go for that about right now. We got some burgers and tried cooking them on the stove the other day. First, it made the condo smell like fish. It was like Long John Silvers up in here. Second, we smoked up the place so bad--- it was awful. Its not like back home.
4. Running 5Ks. I still want to do a half marathon here. Training got derailed after spraining my foot in Hong Kong. I will get that done. I got 11 months... Hanging out though with Paxton Bennett and Jordon Overton and Bamf at the State Fair 5K is such a joy. It sucks, thats something Jordon and I had done since its inception in 2007. Such a good time. Oh well. I will do it in 2015 and dominate. I smell a Personal best time.
3. The little things we cannot get here. Ummmmm... Totino's Party Pizzas, Diet Mountain Dew, Going on road trips which led to getting Canteen sandwiches in Ottumwa, or Pasquale's Pizza in Humboldt. A chicago Hot Dog would be nice. Maybe a Wig and Pen Pizza topped by a trip to Jethro's BBQ (or soon the new Fong's that will be next door). It was fun and heartbreaking this week to see our friend Sarah Bergeson in Des Moines visiting (she lives in Hawaii) and getting to go to the High Life Lounge and other local places. There are so many little luxuries we take for granted that just arent available here. Oh well... when we are back-- I will sure miss being able to get Chicken feet at any time of day... or Sisig. Going out and challenging Suzy to a game of Mini Golf would be nice too.
2. Birds. Wildlife. Country living. Yes that would be nice. It is no secret that I love attracting birds to our townhouse back home. Sure-- sometimes that led to raccoon thiefs stealing our feeders... but we atttracted scores of different birds. It was relaxing and so much fun. I've seen a few sparrows here. Living 10 minutes from Saylorville Dam was great too. We could see Deer, fish, whatever. There is plenty to see here outside of the city, but accessibility and lining it up with Suzy's schedule has been daunting.
1. Family and Friends. Of course that is the easy, obvious answer. No matter how many friends and people I meet here-- its hard to relate to immediate friends and family the experiences here. It will be the same when we go home next year and trying to relate being in America to my new friends here. Hopefully someone from Home will make it out here; it would be an enjoyable time. It is hard being on the other side of the world. I just can't hop in my car to visit... or us be visited.
Thank you all, Take care of yourselves
Well one year here in the Philippines has come and gone. Here are ten things I miss about the USA.
10. Trivia night at Wellman's ... Team DBT! I do get to watch last year's Jeopardy episodes on the local version of the Game show channel, but it is not the the same. Trivia night... making fun of the other teams using their smart phones to get answers... good times. and that leads to another fun weeknight tradition...
9. Bingo night at Champps. I think it has a new name-- 86'd or something like that... But good old bingo night, and winning Fist pumping dance offs-- is something I definitely miss. There is no fist pumping competitions here,
8. Local Sports teams. I know Suzy misses the Iowa Energy games also even if Paul Harris is not there anymore. I do miss the relationships we made as season ticket holders at those games with the staff and our new friends. Of course, I picked the wrong year to move away from the Iowa Cubs standpoint as well. The best collection of talent in 30 years is there and I miss it. I miss the tailgating for Iowa games and the sounds of the crowd. Oh well. I got bum rushed by a big Palmetto bug/roach in the hallway yesterday... So, there is that.
7. Working. Yeah, that probably sounds weird. But it would be nice to have a real job. I enjoy helping out around here and being a personal Assistant to Melissa... but yikes-- I do miss helping others. At Wells Fargo, I miss those relationships with my co-workers-- the little things like getting to know them and their families. I miss being able to help others and make a difference. Granted, I could probably work illegally over here starting tomorrow, but we just want to do it right. Too bad working legally would cost me around 70,000 PHP allegedly. and that would take a long time to recoup. Doing the blog for Stadium Journey has been great, hopefully wet season will be over soon so more venues will have sports events. This also includes Volunteer work. There are probably opportunities here-- abundant opportunities I bet, but I miss being able to support the United Way like we did in the US. In 2013, we had a great time helping VITA in Des Moines, assisting low income persons and families with their taxes. I sure hope we can go back to that.
6. Roller Derby and Stand-up Comedy. Yeah, I miss being in front of a crowd asking for a Chuck U. I also miss standing up on stage and telling jokes. I am not sure what part in my life those will play when I return to the USA, but I know I miss those and all of my friends from that a lot here.
5. Grilling. I am not a masterchef, but I do enjoy working with food on the grill. Plus, I am pretty good. I have a couple good recipes for hot dogs and sausages and do well with steak, chops, and chicken. Ahhh to be on the deck in the fall, with the crisp air, a cold micro beer in one hand, a spatula in the other and food on the grill... I would sure go for that about right now. We got some burgers and tried cooking them on the stove the other day. First, it made the condo smell like fish. It was like Long John Silvers up in here. Second, we smoked up the place so bad--- it was awful. Its not like back home.
4. Running 5Ks. I still want to do a half marathon here. Training got derailed after spraining my foot in Hong Kong. I will get that done. I got 11 months... Hanging out though with Paxton Bennett and Jordon Overton and Bamf at the State Fair 5K is such a joy. It sucks, thats something Jordon and I had done since its inception in 2007. Such a good time. Oh well. I will do it in 2015 and dominate. I smell a Personal best time.
3. The little things we cannot get here. Ummmmm... Totino's Party Pizzas, Diet Mountain Dew, Going on road trips which led to getting Canteen sandwiches in Ottumwa, or Pasquale's Pizza in Humboldt. A chicago Hot Dog would be nice. Maybe a Wig and Pen Pizza topped by a trip to Jethro's BBQ (or soon the new Fong's that will be next door). It was fun and heartbreaking this week to see our friend Sarah Bergeson in Des Moines visiting (she lives in Hawaii) and getting to go to the High Life Lounge and other local places. There are so many little luxuries we take for granted that just arent available here. Oh well... when we are back-- I will sure miss being able to get Chicken feet at any time of day... or Sisig. Going out and challenging Suzy to a game of Mini Golf would be nice too.
2. Birds. Wildlife. Country living. Yes that would be nice. It is no secret that I love attracting birds to our townhouse back home. Sure-- sometimes that led to raccoon thiefs stealing our feeders... but we atttracted scores of different birds. It was relaxing and so much fun. I've seen a few sparrows here. Living 10 minutes from Saylorville Dam was great too. We could see Deer, fish, whatever. There is plenty to see here outside of the city, but accessibility and lining it up with Suzy's schedule has been daunting.
1. Family and Friends. Of course that is the easy, obvious answer. No matter how many friends and people I meet here-- its hard to relate to immediate friends and family the experiences here. It will be the same when we go home next year and trying to relate being in America to my new friends here. Hopefully someone from Home will make it out here; it would be an enjoyable time. It is hard being on the other side of the world. I just can't hop in my car to visit... or us be visited.
Thank you all, Take care of yourselves
Monday, August 18, 2014
Chilling in the Philippines-- McDonald's
"It's More Fun In The Philippines!" That is one of the main slogans here. A lot of times it is muttered by me when I am trying to get through day by day. Smog, never ending traffic, unscrupulous taxi drivers, etc. etc... It is more fun here.
I have really decided to just try to put a smile on everything. Most of this is never going to be under my control. So time to smile it off. I just got a haircut so I cannot pull my hair as a stress reliever; I might as well just smile.
I have mentioned in the blog and on Facebook before... the McDonald's here is pretty solid. Compared to the McD's back home... Big Ron's Steakhouse here makes few mistakes and the workers are very polite. The food isn't bad, and I love their McSpaghetti. In addition, there is McDelivery, which is glorious. It only costs 40 Pesos (less than a $1) and they are usually quite prompt.
Now McDonald's back home I have a long history with-- I have even blogged about it back in the day. You can check out my blog from May 25, 2012.
I have really decided to just try to put a smile on everything. Most of this is never going to be under my control. So time to smile it off. I just got a haircut so I cannot pull my hair as a stress reliever; I might as well just smile.
I have mentioned in the blog and on Facebook before... the McDonald's here is pretty solid. Compared to the McD's back home... Big Ron's Steakhouse here makes few mistakes and the workers are very polite. The food isn't bad, and I love their McSpaghetti. In addition, there is McDelivery, which is glorious. It only costs 40 Pesos (less than a $1) and they are usually quite prompt.
Now McDonald's back home I have a long history with-- I have even blogged about it back in the day. You can check out my blog from May 25, 2012.
So, today I find out that McDonald's has a special item for "Drive Thru" Customers. By a value meal... then spend 45 pesos and get a fry holder for your car. a Fry holder? What a great idea... Definitely one of those "Why didn't I think of that moments." I had thought once that a harmonica holder like the Blues Traveler guy uses would work, but this is nice. Hands free holding of fries is great. Suzy said it will make eating with milkshakes easier.
Tonight I walk with Suzy to the Taxi stand, which is right next to the McDonald's. All of this is just accross the street from the condo. Monday, generally, is one of the few nights there is no line for a taxi. It was easy, said goodbye to Suzy, said hi to my favorite Taxi Guard, Mark, (we have our own handshake and fist bump... I will talk more about him in an upcoming blog) and then it was off to get a fry holder. Ironically, we won't be able to use the fry holder immediately (It's not like we have a car), but I had never seen something like this in the US.
No matter the time of day, McDonald's is always busy here. 3 lines at least 3 deep... always. No worries. Now I had told Suzy there may be issues getting this fry holder as the fine print said for "Drive Thru" Customers. Nothing is ever real easy. I get in line and the waiting game begins. To expedite orders, they have a guy walking through the crowd taking orders. He gets to me and I explain my wish. "Sorry, sir... Drive thru only."
"I understand", I said with a smile, "But, I have no car. Can I please just take advantage anyway?"
"Sorry Sir. you must drive thru."
Right now thoughts are going thru my head, do I go back and have Mark the Guard get me a taxi and I just take that through the Drive thru? That will cost like a whole 60 pesos, not a big deal. Instead I tried again, with a bigger smile and a head tilt.
"Again, I totally understand. I just do not have a car, but would love to buy these. I will be happy to pay."
"Sir, talk to manager."
"Great."
I get to the front of the line and I ask for the manager. The crew member apprised him in Tagalog of what I wanted. I then said, "yes exactly." I know a lot more Tagalog than I lead on because I am not an expert by any means, but I like playing dumb and bluffing a little. Once they realized I looked like I knew what they were saying, it was all English from then on out of them. The guy then took me to a separate register and said, "To avail the special, they are 45 pesos after buying a value meal for each."
I smiled even more. "Great, so I just buy a value meal. and can get one for 45 PHP?"
"Yes sir."
We had McDonald's today, so I didn't want food, but I also saw my window. Time to order and not worry about it. I ordered a McSpaghetti Meal and some other items, smiling all the way. I then paid and got my food. Then, as they handed me my nice fry holders, I thought to myself..."This was easy, I didn't even have to get banned from value meals."
I left McDonalds with 4 bags (no drink holders, they just put them in bags) and I thanked the crew member in Tagalog. As I left, I decided to see if Mark the Taxi guard wanted a fry. He usually has a little bag of rice he eats for dinner, so why not have some fries? He initially said, no, but I explained I had extra and would be happy if he had them. He then relented and said with gusto, "Yeahhhhhhhhh." He took a fry and a container of ketchup and I am sure had a happier night.
So what a great night. I smiled, Suzy got a fry holder, Mark got some fries, and the staff at McDonald's, well they at least made it happen today.
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Earlier today, Suzy signed an addendum to our lease. We will be here one more year. I estimate our return to the US permanently will be around late August or mid-September, 2015.
Take care of yourselves, everybody
Chuck
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